‘Private label’ commissary-brand groceries are one step closer to shelves

“Commissary officials plan to start a new comprehensive private label program Oct. 1, according to documents obtained by Military Times.

Information was not immediately available from commissary officials about whether products will be in the stores by that date or if there is a timeline for those products. But “the new merchandising program” is scheduled to begin Oct. 1, according to a notice to members of the groceryindustry from the Defense Commissary Agency, expected to be released June 20.

The commissary agency, which operates commissaries worldwide, is seeking a company — or companies — to implement a private label program that will include all commissaries, all departments and categories of products currently stocked, according to a “Notice to the Trade” document digitally signed June 17 by Chris Burns, DeCA’s chief performance officer.

The notice announces DeCA will accept presentations from interested companies July 18-22.

Private label products are sometimes referred to as “generic” products, usually costing less than national name brands. Commissaries have long sold brands that are similar to private label brands, the same as are sold in some civilian stores, and offered a cost savings, but they were not developed by the commissary agency.

DeCA’s notice states that the private label requirements may include the adoption of an already existing trademarked brand; the development of a DeCA brand; or a combination of both. The company chosen will be responsible for finding sources for the products, developing the program, and implementing it.”